Surprising Facts About Jelly Roll You Probably Didn’t Know
Surprising Facts About Jelly Roll You Probably Didn’t Know
Jelly Roll’s story is one of the most captivating in country music today. These Jelly Roll facts go beyond the headlines to reveal the truth about his early struggles, rise to fame, and personal growth. From time spent in solitary confinement to emotional battles, and even friendships with celebrities like The Rock, the “Need a Favor” singer has lived a life worth documenting.
Whether you’re a longtime fan or just getting to know him, these facts shed light on Jelly Roll’s personal struggles, career highs, and everything in between.
1. Jelly Roll’s Real Name Is Jason DeFord
Born December 4, 1984, in Nashville, Tennessee, Jelly Roll grew up in Antioch, a rougher part of town known for trouble.
2. He Grew Up Surrounded by Addiction
His childhood home was marked by his mother’s addiction and mental health struggles, which worsened after his parents’ divorce.
3. He Started Dealing Drugs as a Teen
By his early teens, Jelly Roll was selling drugs on the streets—a path that quickly led to trouble.
4. He Was Charged as an Adult at 16
At just 16, he was hit with a charge of aggravated robbery and tried as an adult, leading to significant jail time.
5. He Spent Six Months in Solitary Confinement
While incarcerated, he endured 23-hour lockdowns every day for half a year.
6. He Got His GED in Jail
While locked up, Jelly Roll earned his GED and later completed an associate degree in sociology from Volunteer State University.
7. His Nickname Has a Sad Origin
His mother gave him the nickname “Jelly Roll” because he was a chubby kid—a name that later reflected deeper struggles with body image and mental health.
8. Weed Helped Him Stay Sober
He credits marijuana with keeping him away from harder substances, saying it saved him from returning to addiction.
9. He Dreams of Being on the Cover of Men’s Health
Jelly Roll’s ultimate fitness goal? Making the cover of Men’s Health magazine in 2026.
10. He Plays Golf
Jelly Roll has confirmed he golfs, though he hasn’t claimed to be a pro.
11. The Rock Is a Fan
Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson once credited Jelly Roll’s music with helping him through a tough time. The two have stayed in touch since 2017.
12. Waffle House Once Sued Him
Jelly Roll released a mixtape called Whiskey, Weed & Waffle House and used the restaurant’s logo—prompting a lawsuit that cost him $10,000.
13. He Has a Son Named Noah
Noah lives with his mother, but Jelly Roll remains actively involved in his life and respects his family’s privacy.
14. He Appeared on Tulsa King
He made his acting debut on Tulsa King Season 2, playing himself in a cameo role.
15. He’s Been Arrested Around 40 Times
Most of his arrests were for drug-related charges and petty theft, long before his music took off.
16. “Save Me” Came from a Dark Place
He wrote the song during the pandemic while grieving the loss of his father. It became a breakout hit without any initial promotion.
17. Suicide Rumors Are Unverified
While he’s open about mental health struggles, Jelly Roll has never publicly confirmed past suicide attempts.
18. His Father Passed Over a Decade Ago
His dad died years ago, but his presence and influence still show up in Jelly Roll’s music and life.
19. He Writes Songs for His Mom
Despite their rocky history, Jelly Roll says many of his songs were written for his mother.
20. Bunnie Xo’s Real Name Is Alisa
His wife, known publicly as Bunnie Xo, was previously an escort and is a survivor of her own struggles with addiction.
21. He Was Blackout Drunk on His Wedding Night
He admits he doesn’t remember getting married due to heavy drinking at the time.
22. They Almost Divorced in Their First Year
Their relationship nearly ended within the first year of marriage. Bunnie even prepared to move back to Las Vegas.
23. He Went from 1,000 Tickets to 20,000
In under a year, Jelly Roll jumped from selling 1,000 tickets in Connecticut to selling out Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena.
24. He Has Two Older Brothers
Roger and Scott, who resemble Jelly Roll, appear in his Save Me documentary. A sister may exist, but that’s unconfirmed.
25. His Daughter Changed His Life
Bailee Ann was born while he was in jail. His desire to do right by her marked a turning point in his life.
26. The Song “She” Is Personal
His track “She” was inspired by the addiction battles faced by both his mother and Bailee’s mom.
27. He and Bunnie Explore Non-Traditional Love
While not in an open marriage, Jelly Roll and Bunnie Xo have been open about inviting others into their relationship for fun.
